First things first: if your menstrual disc is leaking, you are not alone. It’s a common part of the learning curve for any reusable disc.
In a systematic review, up to 45% of women found reusable cups difficult to use initially. The good news? Issues with menstrual disc leaks are almost always fixable, and research shows that once they get the hang of it, 73% of users want to continue.
What are Some Common Reasons Your Disc Leaks?
Most leaks aren't about a faulty product; they're about ensuring the menstrual disc is inserted correctly. If you’re transitioning from menstrual cups, you should also remember that using a menstrual disc has its own nuances that may be new to you.
The most common culprits behind a menstrual disc leak are simple slip-ups that are easy to correct:
Incorrect rim placement behind the pubic bone
Misjudged cervix height affecting the menstrual disc's position
Over-capacity flow leading to "auto-dumping"
Sudden pelvic floor muscle pressure shifts (hello, sneeze-leaks!)
If any of these sound familiar, think of them as simple signals about fit and placement, not failures. Whether you're switching from menstrual cups or trying a disc for the first time, understanding these common causes of menstrual disc leaking will help you achieve the perfect fit.
A few small checks on position, cervix height, capacity, and how your pelvic floor behaves through the day can turn those blips into easy fixes, setting you up for a smoother, leak-free fit when using a menstrual disc.
Don’t stress. We’re about to walk through each of these issues with step-by-step troubleshooting tips to get you to that leak-free sweet spot.
How Do You Master Disc Placement?
The number one cause of menstrual disc leaks is improper placement. If the front rim isn’t in a secure position tucked behind your pubic bone, it can’t form a proper seal to catch your menstrual blood.
This is true whether it’s your first time using menstrual discs or transitioning from menstrual cups. The disc must be positioned correctly to sit behind your pubic bone. Think of your pubic bone as a little shelf that holds the disc in the right spot.
Here’s how to make sure it’s perfectly positioned every time.
Wash your hands and take a deep breath to relax your jaw. A tense jaw often leads to a tense pelvic floor, making insertion trickier.
Pinch the disc in the middle with your thumb and index finger to form a “U” or figure-8 shape. Make sure the soft, flexible rim of the disc is what you’re holding.
Slide the menstrual disc into your vaginal canal, aiming it back toward your tailbone and slightly down, not straight up like a tampon.
Keep pushing until you can’t feel the disc with your finger anymore. Then, use your finger to give the front rim one final push, tucking it snugly up behind your pubic bone.
Perform the finger-sweep check: trace the rim with your finger. It should feel smooth and taut, with no folds or gaps. You should also feel that the disc is positioned below your cervix, creating a barrier to catch menstrual fluid. You shouldn’t be able to easily pull it out of place.
Note: Because our design is suction-free, you won't feel a "pop" like you might with menstrual cups. Unlike menstrual cups that rely on suction, menstrual discs must be inserted correctly and tucked behind your pubic bone to stay in place. That final rim tuck is the key to a secure, leak-proof fit.
Angle Hack: Aim back toward your tailbone, not up like a tampon. This simple angle change is the secret to getting the disc to sit correctly below your cervix and behind the pubic bone. |
How Does Cervix Position Affect Disc Fit and Leaks?
Your body is unique, and your cervix height can play a big role in how your menstrual disc fits. Knowing where your cervix is sitting helps you angle your disc for maximum coverage and minimum leaks.
Here’s a quick way to check:
With clean hands, insert your index finger into your vagina.
Feel for a small, firm bump that feels a bit like the tip of your nose. That’s your cervix!
Note how far your finger went in. If you could only insert up to your first knuckle, you likely have a low cervix. Up to the middle knuckle is medium, and if you can barely reach it, you have a high cervix.
Using a menstrual cup works differently. They sit lower in the vaginal canal and create suction, but menstrual discs need to be positioned specifically below your cervix and tucked behind the pubic bone. This placement difference is why some people prefer reusable discs over cups for a more comfortable fit.
How does this cause menstrual disc leaking?
High cervix: If you don’t push the disc in far enough, the rim may sit too shallowly, causing leaks when you stand up or move around.
Low cervix: The disc might put light pressure on the cervix opening, causing a slow, persistent seep if not angled correctly. This can also apply to those with a tilted cervix.
For a high cervix, try inserting while squatting or sitting on the toilet to help your cervix "drop" lower and become easier to cover. For a low cervix, angle the disc slightly more upward before the final tuck to ensure the rim sits below your cervix opening, effectively preventing leaking.
Remember that your cervix height isn't a barrier; it's a guide to make sure the menstrual disc is positioned and inserted correctly below your cervix. Knowing if it's high or low simply helps you adjust your insertion angle for a perfect, leak-proof seal every single time.
nixit’s soft, flexible medical-grade silicone is designed to work with most anatomies in one fuss-free size.
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What is Auto-Dumping - and is it a Leak?
Sometimes, your menstrual disc leaking is simply a sign that your disc is full. A recent study found that most menstrual discs held the most blood, averaging 61 ml, compared to other menstrual products.
The nixit disc has an impressive capacity of up to 70 ml, which is equivalent to about four super tampons! With this high capacity, plan to remove, rinse, and reinsert your disc at least every 12 hours for cleaning. You may prefer to check in sooner on very heavy days to avoid reaching capacity.
You might also notice a brief release when you’re on the toilet. This is also called “auto-dumping.”
When you bear down to pee or poop, your pelvic floor muscles contract and can temporarily untuck the disc’s rim, allowing some menstrual fluid to empty into the toilet. The fix is simple: after you’re done, just use a clean finger to push the rim back up behind your pubic bone.
How Can You Prevent Leaks Due to Pelvic Floor Pressure?
A sudden, forceful contraction of your core muscles can put pressure on your pelvic floor, which can nudge the disc’s rim and cause menstrual disc leaking. This is especially common for those who are postpartum and working to rebuild pelvic floor strength. It can happen from a cough, a sneeze, a heavy lift at the gym, or even laughing.
If those moments tend to trigger leaks, a little targeted strengthening can help your pelvic floor stay steady under pressure. Quick moves you can do at home go a long way.
Quick Strength Circuit
This 2–3 minute mini routine builds coordination and endurance in the pelvic floor and its support team (glutes and deep core). Do it anywhere, no equipment needed.
10 Kegels: Contract your pelvic floor muscles for 3 seconds, then release for 3 seconds.
10 Glute Bridges: Lie on your back, knees bent, and lift your hips, squeezing your glutes and pelvic floor at the top.
Repeat this circuit daily for best results.
Lifestyle Hacks
When you feel a sneeze or cough coming on, gently support your lower belly with your hand. This small brace can reduce the downward pressure that nudges the disc’s rim.
Plan ahead for high-intensity moments. Empty your disc right before a HIIT class or a heavy lifting session so you’re starting with maximum capacity and a secure seal.
Remember that the ultra-soft, flexible rim of the nixit menstrual disc is designed to move with your body. It flexes with your muscles during crunches or period sex, so you don’t have to worry about a hard stem poking you or a rigid rim getting knocked out of place.
| Secure-Seat Tip: Expecting a sneeze or heading to the gym? Emptying your disc beforehand is the easiest way to prevent surprise leaks caused by sudden pelvic floor pressure. A lighter load means a more secure fit. |
How Can You Remove Your Menstrual Disc Without the Mess?
The fear of a messy removal is real, but your disc removal doesn’t have to be messy. With a little practice, you can master a clean, quick, and splash-free exit. The key is to stay relaxed and control the angle to prevent spills.
Here are four simple removal methods, how to do them, and the benefits of each. Pick one or mix and match based on your flow and comfort.
Method | How It's Done | Benefit |
Relax & Position | Sit on the toilet and tuck your chin toward your chest to gently shorten the vaginal canal. | Easier reach and less tension for smoother removal. |
Pinch + Keep Level | Hook your index finger under the front rim and pull out slowly, keeping the disc parallel to the floor. | Minimizes spills and keeps contents stable. |
Slow Tilt-Pour If Full | If very full, tilt the disc slightly into the toilet mid-exit to release some fluid, then remove fully. | Reduces mess by lightening the load before removal. |
Shower Method (for beginners) | Remove the disc in the shower with warm water to help muscles relax and rinse away any mess instantly. | Lowest-stress removal with easy cleanup. |
Whichever method you choose, take a deep breath, bear down gently to bring the rim within reach, and move slowly to keep the disc level. With a few tries, removal becomes second nature. Wash your hands before and after, and if you’re nervous, start in the shower until you build confidence.
How Does nixit’s Suction-Free Design Help?
Stopping leaks is easier when you have a disc designed for comfort and flexibility. The suction-free, one-size-fits-most model of nixit solves many of the common issues that cause leaks in the first place.
nixit menstrual disc
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70 ml capacity: Holds the equivalent of 4+ super tampons for fewer bathroom runs.
Up to 12-hour wear: Yes, that includes comfortable, leak-free protection overnight.
Sleep, sex, yoga-flow friendly: Most menstrual discs move with your body, regardless if you’re working out, having sex, or changing sleeping positions.
Soft medical-grade silicone: 100% body-safe with zero toxins, plastics, or BPA.
FDA- & Health Canada-registered: Proudly made in Canada to the highest safety standards.
Waste buster: One reusable disc can keep over 300 tampons out of landfills each year.
6,500+ reviews, average 4.7★: Real people enjoying real leak-free days.
While most leaks are fixable with technique tweaks, your disc should be comfortable and reliable. Most people lock in a secure seal with a few small adjustments over a cycle or two - nixit’s flexible, suction-free design is built to help you get there.
If you’re still fine-tuning, check our step-by-step placement tips or reach out to our support team for personalized guidance.
The Bottom Line
Menstrual disc leaking can be frustrating, but it’s rarely a mystery. Most of them trace back to placement, capacity, or pressure, and now you have the playbook to fix them all. A little practice and a better understanding of your own body are all it takes to achieve period peace of mind.
You deserve stress-free periods on your own terms. Ready to ditch leaks for good? Try nixit’s game-changing suction-free menstrual disc and other period products.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my disc is the right size for me?
If your disc stays in place comfortably during normal activities and doesn't cause pressure or discomfort, it's likely the right fit. nixit's one-size design works for most anatomies, making it easy to find your perfect fit without the guesswork.
Can I trim my menstrual disc if it feels too big?
Never trim or alter your menstrual disc, as this compromises its safety and effectiveness. If it feels uncomfortable, the issue is usually positioning rather than size. Try adjusting your insertion angle or exploring different disc brands designed for your anatomy.
Is it normal to feel my disc during wear?
You shouldn't feel a properly positioned disc at all during normal activities. If you're aware of it, the rim likely isn't tucked far enough behind your pubic bone. Try adjusting your insertion angle for an invisible, comfortable fit.
How long does it take to get comfortable with using a disc?
Most users report feeling confident after at least two cycles or more of consistent use. The learning curve is part of the journey, but with patience and practice using the insertion techniques in this guide, you'll achieve leak-free comfort in no time.
What should I do if my disc keeps slipping during bowel movements?
This is completely normal because bearing down relaxes pelvic muscles and can untuck the rim. Simply reposition the front rim back behind your pubic bone with a clean finger after you're done, and you're good to go.
